Comparison of different irrigating solutions on root canal disinfection after mechanical preparation by using scanning electron microscope: An in vitro study

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the efficacy of different irrigating solutions on root canal system and analyzing smear layer using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: Fifty mandibular premolars were decoronated and split longitudinally. Each root half was divided into five groups (n = 10): Group I - 3 ml of physiological saline, Group II - 3 ml of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Group III - 1 ml of 10% citric acid, Group IV - 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate (Vishal Dentocare, India), Group V - Largal Ultra (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid [EDTA] 15% + cetrimide 0.75%), Septodont (Saint-Maur-des-fosses, France), and Group VI - Smear Clear (Sybron Endo, Orange, CA, USA) (17% EDTA, cetrimide, and a special surfactant). Irrigation regimens were performed for 1 min. The presence or absence of smear layer at the coronal, middle, and apical portion of each canal were examined under an SEM. Results: A significant difference (P < 0.001) in smear layer removal between smear clear and Largal Ultra at the apical and middle third of the canal was observed. The presence of debris is more obvious in the apical third rather than in the middle and coronal part of the root canals. Conclusion: Largal Ultra, Smear Clear, and the citric acid removed the smear layer more efficient way as compared to CHX, NaOCl, and saline solutions.